natan

Natan is a male given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew root נתן (n-t-n), meaning “to give.” The form Natan is often interpreted as “he gave,” and the name is related to longer forms such as Netanel (Nathaniel), which is commonly rendered as “God has given.” In the Hebrew Bible, Nathan the prophet (Natan HaNavi) is a well-known bearer of the name, serving as an advisor to King David.

Natan is widely used among Jewish communities and in Hebrew-speaking contexts. In Israel it remains a common given name, and it appears in various spellings in other languages, including Nathan in English, Natán in Spanish-language contexts, and Natan in several Eastern European and Balkan languages. Diminutives or nicknames often include Nati or Nat. The name is frequently associated with the concept of giving or gift due to its root meaning.

Beyond its use as a given name, Natan is also encountered as a surname in some communities, though it is primarily used as a first name. Related names share the same root and broad meaning, including Netanel, Nathan, and Nathanael, which reflect the idea of “God has given” or “gift.” The name’s geographic and cultural reach continues to be reflected in its various transliterations and forms across languages.